Athletico Paranaense falls to Racing in 17 seconds

If the mission of Lucho González upon assuming the Athletico Paranaense was to make “beans and rice”, the plan went down the drain in just 17 seconds. Racing entered the field hungry for the ball and in the first attempt, Almendra hit a shot of rare happiness, opening the scoring with a great goal that completely destroyed the team from Paraná.

Athletico in Pieces

The flash goal affected not only Athletico Paranaense’s tactical system, but also the players’ psychology. The team, which was already coming off a troubled season, was unable to react to the pressure and ended up seeing Racing completely dominate the first half. Roger Martínez and Adrián Martínez extended the advantage, taking advantage of a generous and disorganized defense from Paraná.

Lineups That Didn’t Work

Lucho bet on tactical changes that, in practice, had no effect. With Léo Godoy on the side and Erick back in the middle, the team was rigid and without creativity. In attack, Cuello, Canobbio and Mastriani did little. The ball barely circulated in midfield and reached the attack even less. Athletico’s only real chance in the first half came from an inspired throw from Kaique Rocha to Canobbio.

Range Changes

Trailing 3-0, Lucho made three changes at halftime: Nikão, Christian and Pablo came on to try to change the game. But the truth is that, at that moment, the cow was already on its way to the marsh. Full-back Godoy, much criticized, left the scene, but Nikão’s entry brought a slight sigh. The midfielder even scored a goal at the beginning of the second half, fueling hopes that would soon be dashed.

Frustrated Reaction and Another Great Goal

Nikão scored in the first play of the second half, after a pass from Canobbio, but Racing quickly cooled down any possibility of an athletic reaction. Martirena, from outside the area, scored another great goal, settling the score and guaranteeing the Argentines’ classification in the South American Championship. Elimination was confirmed, and Athletico Paranaense would have to deal with yet another setback in a season full of frustrations.

A Year of Coach Changes

The elimination came in the first game of Athletico Paranaense’s fourth coach of the season. Lucho González, who took over after Martín Varini left, inherited a disorganized team. Throughout the year, the club went through Domènec Torrent, dreamed of Fernando Diniz, bet on Osorio and Cuca, but the scenario only got worse. Now, with Lucho at the helm and Paulo Autuori behind the scenes, the team needs to reinvent itself.

Limited Cast and Window Errors

The errors started way back when, when assembling the cast. Athletico abused the start of the year window, hiring poorly and failing to correct clear problems during the season. The team’s limitations were evident from the first months of 2024, but market decisions didn’t help. The result? A team that was unable to compete at its height in the South American Championship and that now sees the specter of relegation looming large.

Total Focus on Staying in Series A

With the elimination in the South American Championship, Athletico Paranaense now focuses all its strength on avoiding a greater disaster: relegation in the Brasileirão. Lucho minimized the risk at the press conference, but behind the scenes the concern is real. The team has 13 games ahead and a thankless task — do whatever it takes to avoid falling into Series B.

A Debt to the Fans

Athletico Paranaense owes a debt to its fans. The year started with high expectations, with promises of good football and competing at a high level. But now, with the elimination in the South American Championship and the risk of relegation, the mission is one: avoid the worst. The next few months will be tense, and fans need to buckle up, because the road to the end of the season promises to be turbulent.

Fasten Your Seat Belts: The Season Is Not Over Yet

Although elimination from the South American Championship is a heavy blow, Athletico Paranaense’s season is not over yet. With 13 games remaining in the Brasileirão, the club needs to reverse its situation and guarantee its stay in Series A. The changes in the coaching staff did not bring the expected effect, but Lucho González has the mission of saving Furacão from a relegation that would be devastating.

Summary for those in a hurry:

• Athletico Paranaense eliminated by Racing in the South American: 4-1 defeat with two goals from the Argentines.
• Racing goal in the 17th second dismantles Athletico: Paraná team suffered psychologically and tactically.
• Lucho’s tactical changes didn’t work: defense failed, and the attack was ineffective.
• Nikão scored, but Racing controlled the game: Athletico’s reaction was quickly stifled.
• Elimination marks the debut of Lucho, the fourth coach of the season: 2024 has been a year of instability.
• Attention now back to Brasileirão: Athletico has 13 games to avoid relegation.